Frozen

Definition

Frozen is an adjective that describes a state of being solidified due to extremely low temperatures. It can also be used metaphorically to describe being immobile, static, or emotionally unresponsive. As the past participle of the verb "freeze," it also refers to the action of having become solid or still.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Verb (past participle of "freeze")

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfroʊzən/
• Respelling: FROH-zuhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfrəʊzən/
• Respelling: FROH-zuhn

Etymology

The word "frozen" originates from Old English "freosan," meaning "to freeze," derived from Proto-Germanic "*freusaną" and Proto-Indo-European "*prews-" (to freeze or burn). The modern form evolved as the past participle of "freeze."

Derivatives

• Freezing (adjective/noun)
• Freeze (verb)
• Freezable (adjective)
• Frozenly (adverb)
• Refrozen (verb, past participle)

Synonyms

• Solidified
• Immobilized
• Chilled

Antonyms

• Melted
• Thawed
• Fluid

Usage

The adjective "frozen" is commonly used in contexts such as food preservation ("The vegetables are kept frozen to maintain freshness") or emotional states ("She stood frozen with fear"). As the past participle of "freeze," it appears in descriptions of processes ("The lake has frozen over for the winter").

Related Terms

• Freeze: The action of becoming frozen or making something frozen.
• Thaw: The process of becoming unfrozen.
• Chill: A moderate or slight coldness, often a precursor to freezing.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Solidified due to low temperatures: Describes a state where a liquid has turned into a solid.
  • Example: "The pond is completely frozen in winter."
• Immobilized or static: Used figuratively to describe a lack of movement or action.
  • Example: "She was frozen in shock when she heard the news."
• Emotionally unresponsive or numb: Refers to a detached or cold state of being.
  • Example: "His frozen demeanor made it hard to gauge his feelings."

Verb (past participle of freeze)

• Having turned into a solid state due to freezing: Indicates the completion of the freezing process.
  • Example: "The water had frozen overnight."
• Having been stopped or immobilized: Refers to the halting of activity or movement.
  • Example: "Operations were frozen due to the economic crisis."